After almost a year of staying home, travel is now permitted between England, Scotland and Wales. Even more encouraging is the indication that international travel from the UK may be possible to select destinations from as early as mid-May. So why not return to the skies in style by booking an empty leg flight with Air Charter Scotland?

What is an empty leg flight? 

A private jet empty leg is the term given to flights that are scheduled without any passengers. These operate when an aircraft needs to reposition for its next booked charter flight or to return to its home base.  Private jet charter is a bespoke travel solution and often the aircraft operator will not have a booking for the one-way charter matching its repositioning route and time. As such, the operator can offer the empty part of the flight at a discounted rate. 

What are the benefits of booking an empty leg flight?

Private jet empty leg flights cost significantly less than the full charter price. The price of an empty leg will vary according to the type of aircraft, number of passengers on board and the distance and time of travel. Travellers can usually save around 50% on regular charter rates by booking an empty leg flight, in some cases this can be as high as a 75% discount. 

The cost-saving does not detract from the experience of private jet travel. Private jet empty leg flights still offer:

• Luxury. From spacious and comfy seats to the highest standards in customer care, with private jet empty leg flights the journey will feel as important as the destination. 
• Efficiency. Whether it’s saving time when boarding or quicker travel times, private air travel will get you where you need to be faster. 
• Safety. As past winner of BACA’s Passenger Charter Operator of the Year, it is no surprise that at Air Charter Scotland our flight safety record is second to none. Our passengers can rest assured that they are in the safest of hands. 

How to book a private jet empty leg with Air Charter Scotland?

Private jet empty legs are ideal for travellers looking for a one-way flight. They can be subject to change, but if your plans are flexible then empty leg flights can be a great way of experiencing private jet flight for a fraction of the price. Air Charter Scotland can offer private jet empty leg flights to a range of destinations both within the UK and abroad. Visit Empty Legs – Air Charter Scotland to book your luxury travel experience or sign up to our mailing list to receive our empty leg notifications.

Air Charter Scotland, a leading British private jet operator and aircraft management company, is making available a Cessna Citation 525A (CJ2) business jet (G-NOCM) for charter out of Glasgow Airport, in a company first. 

Newly painted by AeroCare and fitted with updated Dual Garmin GTN avionics, a refurbished six-seat interior and performance-enhancing Tamarack ATLAS Ò  winglets, the aircraft arrived at Air Charter Scotland’s Signature Flight Support private terminal (FBO) this week.

While we have had our offices at Glasgow for 20 years, we haven’t had an aircraft positioned out of our home since 2008,” acknowledged Air Charter Scotland COO Derek Thomson.  “This is terrific timing for discerning private jet customers, many of them new to charter, responding to the restrictions, reduced scheduled service frequencies brought about by the pandemic.  Light jets are the most popular charter aircraft in the UK right now and this one with its enhanced performance benefits will be a popular addition to our fleet,” he said.

Steven Marshall, interim group head of aviation for AGS Airports Ltd , which owns and operates Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports commented: “The introduction of Air Charter Scotland’s very first executive jet based at the company’s spiritual home at Glasgow Airport is fantastic news.

“Chartered services have played an important role in providing connectivity for passengers, including key workers, who had to travel by air for essential purposes during the pandemic when scheduled service alternatives were greatly reduced.

At a time when our industry is facing huge challenges, it’s heartening to see that one of our airport partners is not only expanding its operations, but is doing so with the introduction of a more fuel-efficient aircraft.”  

Enhanced performance aircraft  

The CJ2’s Tamarack Active winglets, accentuated with LED lighting, give the aircraft distinctive styling.  They were installed for the aircraft’s previous owner by JMI – Jet Maintenance International, Tamarack’s Authorised European Installation Centre at its London Oxford Airport facility last summer.  Active Winglets and transformative ATLAS Ò technology gives a wing extension to 55 ft 10in and delivers up to 33% fuel savings, increased payload and range.  A big benefit is its ability to climb above the weather quicker up to 45,000ft – and gives a smoother ride throughout.   It also gives the aircraft better take-off and landing performance on shorter runways with an 800lbs MZFW increase.

“This the first one on a UK operator’s certificate but there is growing demand for the Tamarack Active winglet installation in the Citation CJ series,” said JMI’s Director Ed Griffith.  The established Cessna Citation MRO undertook a two-week maintenance check of the aircraft before its placement at Glasgow Airport.

Contact our expert charter team

Air Charter Scotland’s Commercial Director and Accountable Manager Derek Thomson is pleased to be appointed to the Board of The Air Charter Association (The ACA) supporting newly appointed CEO Glenn Hogben and fellow board directors. Derek will draw on his 25 years’ experience in aviation to offer support and advice to operators and charter brokers as The ACA, now in its 72nd year, continues to widen its global membership reach.

He is also keen to encourage the next generation of young aviation professionals, a passion he shares with Air Charter Scotland’s Sales Manager Michelle McMullan, who became one of The ACA’s Next Generation ambassadors in October last year.

“We are all experiencing a challenging and uncertain time as an industry, which has really tested our resilience. However, it is also a time of unchartered opportunity to prove our value as a business enabler,” Derek said. 

“Since March last year business aviation is increasingly on the radar of new customers who turned to us because their regular airline route got cut, or they needed urgent repatriation.   Medical professionals working around the clock to fight the pandemic booked with us on their itineraries, reassured by our sector’s safe, private, hygiene-safe cabins.  When the world needed support – business aviation delivered, including several of our members’ jets equipped as air ambulances.”

“This is a great time for innovation too.  We have lots of exciting developments ahead with the wider roll out of sustainable aviation fuel; hybrid and electric aircraft designs and the heightened use of drones for special mission work. The ACA is embracing and following developments with these important game changers,” he added.

Derek is especially supportive of the work the Association has instigated to fight against the scourge of grey/illegal charter flights, which has seen it garner support from international industry organisations including EBAA, MEBAA and AsBAA. 

Air Charter Scotland continues to work closely with charter brokers and global operators who make up The ACA’s primary membership, as the 20-year-old business adds new bases and managed charter aircraft.

During his 25-year aviation career Derek has worked in rotary and fixed wing aircraft operations and sales, as well as FBO airport handling and operations.  Derek made his first solo flight in a Robinson R22 helicopter aged 19 before obtaining his Private Pilot’s Licence.  At Air Charter Scotland he has been closely involved in the company’s transition from a fleet of twin-engine piston and turboprop aircraft through to Cessna Citation C525 and Falcon 7X business jets.  With a now fully worldwide operation and the creation of Air Charter Scotland Europe in January with a new European AOC, the company is gearing up to welcome additional managed aircraft and open new bases.

The Air Charter Association’s ‘Next Generation Group’ is a steering group created last October to promote and communicate to under 35s, the numerous, varied and rewarding opportunities a career in aviation can offer.  It has held two virtual gatherings to date with more planned.

“We are well represented with operators, brokers, support suppliers and it’s a privilege to work alongside like-minded individuals to help shape the future of the industry and continue the professional development and best practices of The ACA,“ said Michelle McMullan, Air Charter Scotland Sales Manager.

Safety continues to be our number one priority for private jet charters, with special measures in place to continue your travel without disruption.

Enjoy premium comfort from the departure lounge, flying to closer airports to the mountains to minimise transfer time to resorts. We’re doing everything we can to ensure you enjoy the winter ski season. We have experienced a rise in demand for winter flights to ski destinations, such as Chambery or Sion, less than two hours’ drive away from Geneva, as well as Caribbean destinations for some well needed R&R.

Why are private chartered winter flights safer?
At Air Charter Scotland, we’re constantly updating our travel policies in line with government and the World Health Organisation guidance. For extra assurance, new periodicals and newspapers are provided for each client, as well as onboard sanitisers for regular usage and prepared catering. All cabin and Air Charter Scotland employees follow social distancing rules and wear face masks at all times. You are guaranteed to be in safe hands with Air Charter Scotland during this time.

Book your flight now for destinations such as:
● Chamonix
● Zemratt
● Andorra
● Val-d’Isère
● …and many more!

Every passenger is considered
At Air Charter Scotland, we understand that you might not be travelling light – particularly if you are planning on hitting the slopes! That’s why we offer ample hold space for larger accessories such as skis and other items.

There’s also no need to worry about crowds while you’re waiting at the airport. Private jet charter is a safer way to travel and avoid the crowds. You will enjoy access to your very own private executive lounge, which adheres to social distancing guidelines. Our staff can answer any questions if you’re not sure.

Enjoy safer winter flights
Covering destinations such as Sion and other European ski resorts, as well as longer flights to destinations like Riyadh, we’re here to help you travel in comfort. We’ll keep you updated on the latest restrictions and other legislation for your destination, so all you need to do is sit back and relax.

If you’re flying with us, please remember to:
● Bring a surgical grade facemask to be worn at all times during the flight
● Keep us informed if you are carrying any larger items
● Ask us about the best transfers from the airport to your final destination
● Get in touch for more information on travel restrictions and how this will affect your journey.

You deserve to fly in style and visit your loved ones or just get away from it all.

Contact Air Charter Scotland 24/7 to start planning your winter getaway.

The ongoing pandemic has had devastating effects on many British industries, not least the travel industry. For those who still have to continue with essential travel, for example as part of their employment, there is a solution. At Air Charter Scotland we are continuing to provide private jet charter for essential travel or other exempt trips.

If you’re concerned about travel restrictions or regularly changing legislation, speak to us about our private jet charter and aircraft management services. Our friendly flight team are on hand to offer travel advice including:
• Restrictions in specific destinations
• Hygiene policies
• Self-isolation practices.
We’ll offer you guidance so that you can get to your destination without a worry.

Why a private jet charter is safer
While commercial flights often have passenger numbers in three figures, a private flight offers a far more intimate experience, with space for up to nine passengers. Larger, more spacious seating areas also offer better social distancing, with the peace of mind of stringent hygiene policies and regularly tested crews.

Many people want to or need to move around over this period, and airports and borders are still open. This is a good time for making plans later in December or into next year, to visit family and friends, or to plan Christmas and New Year or winter holidays. We’re expecting a strong demand to travel again, once the restrictions are lifted. What’s more, the private experience starts long before the plane itself, as it provides clients much more control over their travel experience. We’ll guide you through, from the moment of arrival at the airport to the private lounge and into your seat – maintaining social distancing measures at all
times, and avoiding many touch points that are inevitable with commercial travel.

Every aircraft is equipped with Wi-Fi, so you can keep in touch with your loved ones and check for any updates at your destination.

Keeping you safe with our COVID-19 procedures
To keep Britain moving throughout the pandemic, we’ve devised our own COVID-19 procedures, which we will update in line with government guidelines.

Checking your ‘fitness to fly’
All passengers will be asked to fill out a health questionnaire to assess their suitability for the flight. If we feel that one passenger may pose a risk to others, we will kindly offer alternatives. Please do not take this personally – we owe it to our passengers and crew to maintain a safety-first approach.

We will alert Air Charter Scotland if our passengers present one or more of the following symptoms:
• Fever
• Persistent cough
• Difficulty breathing.
We’ll also operate stringent checks to determine your reason for travel. We may ask for proof of “essential” travel.

During the flight
We ask all passengers to provide their own face masks and wear them for the duration of the journey. N95 masks should not have breathing valves. We advise surgical or facial masks with optimum filtration effectiveness. Handwashing is encouraged whenever removing or donning masks, and we ask that you dispose of your mask responsibly.

Services during the flight
Our staff teams are on hand to give you the most comfortable experience possible. Please note that we have had to make some changes to our customer service for your safety, namely:
• Newspapers cannot be shared between customers
• Hand sanitisers and alcohol wipes are provided
• Galley areas will be kept clear
• All updates will be delivered over the PA system rather than in person
• Catering is prepared in advance to reduce handling.

After your flight
Depending on your destination, we will keep you informed with the latest isolation guidelines, and any additional paperwork you may have to fill in. Please note, Air Charter Scotland follows guidance from the WHO and government agencies. Our first duty is to the safety of our passengers, and we appreciate your patience throughout this time. Read our full COVID-19 travel policy here.

Air Charter Scotland has expanded their operations into Europe after being granted an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) by the Transport Malta Civil Aviation Directorate ™. The AOC issued to their new sister company “Air Charter Scotland Europe Ltd” (AOC number MT-63) is the culmination of several months of planning, and allows the company the ability to continue its expansion into new EU territories.

Air Charter Scotland provides boutique solutions for aircraft management and charter, their presence in Malta will cater for a global rise in demand of their services and compliments their current locations in London, Glasgow and Newcastle. Air Charter Scotland Europe Ltd has already sourced its first aircraft, a Challenger CL-350, with more to be added before the end of this year. 

Derek Thomson, Accountable Manager for Air Charter Scotland Europe Ltd, said, “The presentation of our Maltese AOC marks a significant step in our ability to grow our managed fleet of corporate private jets. It further enhances our ability to provide the highest level of responsiveness and customer service standards.

We appreciate it is an uncertain time in aviation but we see this new venture as a very positive step in our future and look forward to continuing to exceed our customers’ expectations, and to contribute toward the development of business aviation.”

Air Charter Scotland believes their greatest asset is their employees and they have worked tirelessly over the last nine months to ensure the successful completion of this project alongside Captain Charles Pace, the Director General for Civil Aviation at Transport Malta CAD and Katrina Abela, Aviation and maritime lawyer at GVZH Advocates. 

The Air Charter Scotland team have seen an increased surge of enquiries during the COVID-19 outbreak compared with the same period last year due to the lack of available airline flights and  clients seeking safer ways to travel.

The experienced team are trained to the highest standards and go above and beyond to deliver the best service in the industry. The expansion enhances the same safety-first culture from Air Charter Scotland and provides clients with greater control, confidence and privacy when they fly.